Children don't just like sugar... they are biologically hard-wired to eat it. But During periods of growth, they are attracted to foods that give them calories for energy. Now children are living in environments where sugar is everywhere!

We may like our kids to stay away from sugary treats as much as possible. But we also want them to learn an important skill - how to balance all the available choices when they are able to make food decisions for themselves.

Causes of sugar addiction;
- Nutritional deficiency
- Less water intake
- Inadequate dietary fibre
- Availability of refined sugary food at home
- Disturbed / Inadequate Sleep

Signs of too much sugar intake;
- Moody or irritable
- Sluggish or Fatigued
- Weight gain
- Skin Changes

Ways to curb or reduce Sugar cravings;

- Increasing their protein intake
- Include nuts, seeds, ghee, and butter (healthy fats)
- Include fruits as a means of natural sugar and fibre
- Include foods containing zinc, magnesium, tryptophan in their diet (micronutrients)
- ⁠Try not keep refined sugary foods stocked up in your home which could be easily accessible to your child...
- Don't treat desserts as a special indulgence or a reward and normalise it as a part of your food in limited quantity.

Show your children that an occasional dessert or sweet treat can be part of a balanced diet; model that behavior yourself! Sweets and snacks in appropriate portions are OK in moderation. By being educated about sugar intake and making the occasional sugary treat a part of your family's culture, you may find your children craving sugary treats and snacks less and enjoying them in a more mindful and balanced way for life.